The evening’s highlight was the recognition of outstanding educators and support professionals from each school within the district. The annual tradition of honoring these individuals has evolved to include a comprehensive acknowledgment of their contributions, with selection criteria set by the New Jersey Department of Education. Principals from different schools presented awards, sharing personal anecdotes and characteristics that made the awardees stand out.

At North Brunswick High School, Meg Wright was recognized as Teacher of the Year, while custodian Luis Salvatore received the Support Person of the Year award. Although neither could attend, their contributions were celebrated with applause. Middle School Principal shared the achievements of Educator of the Year Megan Carol and Support Person of the Year, Florine White. White was praised for her compassionate work as a one-on-one aide, particularly her dedication to a student with muscular dystrophy. Carol was lauded for her innovative teaching methods in Civics.

Lynwood School’s Principal highlighted Support Person of the Year Lizette Corales for her positive work environment and effective communication skills. Teacher of the Year Isaiah Mason was commended for his significant impact on students and was also surprised with a birthday celebration led by students. Mason’s administrative accomplishments were also acknowledged, with a suggestion to delay pursuing further leadership roles to retain his valuable presence in the current position.

John Adams School announced Jessica Drury as Teacher of the Year and Vivian Luna as Educational Support Professional of the Year. Drury’s long-standing dedication to students and her integration of social-emotional learning into her classroom were emphasized. Although Luna was absent due to bereavement, her dedication as a library clerk was recognized.

From Jud School, Fran Alvarez was named Teacher of the Year, and Maria Roman received the Educational Support Professional of the Year award. Alvarez’s transition from a PTO parent to a teacher was noted. Roman was described as compassionate and reliable, advocating for her students and fostering a loving environment.

At Livingston Park School, Sharon Demerest was honored as ESP of the Year, and Denise Torres as Teacher of the Year. Demerest’s work in the multiple disabilities program was commended, while Torres’s contributions to multilingual learners and her dedication to the dual language program were celebrated. Torres’s teaching style was described as interactive, involving music and movement, and she was recognized as a technology ambassador in the school.

Recognition continued at Parsons School, where Kathy Reynolds was named Teacher of the Year, and Julia Cooper was the Educational Support Professional of the Year. Cooper’s work as a paraprofessional in the preschool program was praised for her nurturing spirit, while Reynolds’s passion for special education and her highly differentiated lesson plans were highlighted.

The Early Childhood Center honored Sheena Chen and Zenb Rzan as Teacher and ESP of the Year, respectively. Chen’s inclusive and innovative teaching style was noted, alongside her work on various committees. Sandy Pon was recognized as the Board Office ESP of the Year, with her dependability and supportive nature in the curriculum department and grant office being emphasized.

The meeting also featured the final certification of the March 11 referendum vote, which saw strong community approval for infrastructure projects. Plans for bond sales and project implementation were discussed, as well as parent involvement during recent teacher conferences. Notable calendar updates included school closures and amendments to the school calendar due to emergency closing days.

Student reports covered various activities, including a successful Rockathon event at North Brunswick High School that raised over $111,000 for local charities. Other highlights included a student-staff basketball game, a coffee house event, and a talent show. A Bingo and auction event raised $27,000 for the class of 2026, underscoring community support.

Committee reports addressed financial matters, such as a USDA grant for a new oven at Jud School and the sale of bonds related to the referendum. Updates on school projects and state and federal grants were provided, along with the announcement of a $10,000 Sustainable Jersey Grant for environmental education kits. Policy changes were introduced, focusing on vaping regulations, residency eligibility, and generative artificial intelligence guidance.